4 min read · Last reviewed 2026-09-01
Cooperate with your own insurer
Your own policy generally contains a cooperation clause, so reporting the crash to your insurer is usually required. That is different from the other side's insurer.
Recorded statements to the other insurer
You are generally not obligated to give the at-fault party's insurer a recorded statement. Early statements are taken before the full extent of an injury is known and are often used to argue the injury was minor.
Signing medical authorizations
Broad authorizations can open your entire medical history rather than the treatment related to the crash. Narrow, relevant records are the normal alternative.
Early settlement offers
An offer made before treatment is complete rarely accounts for future care. Accepting usually closes the claim permanently.
This guide is general legal information, not legal advice, and laws change. Talk to an attorney about your own situation.